Do Returning Students Apply For Nsfas For 2026-2027

Do Returning Students Apply For Nsfas For 2026-2027

NSFAS for Returning Students: Do You Need to Reapply for 2026-2027:

NSFAS plays a pivotal role in funding higher education for South African students. Many students who have already received NSFAS funding in previous years often wonder if they need to reapply for financial aid. The process for returning students differs from first-time applicants, and understanding the requirements is essential to ensure continued support.

If you are a returning student who previously received NSFAS funding, you may not need to submit a new application every year. NSFAS automatically renews funding for students who meet the academic and financial eligibility criteria. However, if you have taken a gap year, changed your course, or lost funding due to poor academic performance, you may need to reapply.

It’s important for returning students to regularly check their NSFAS status and ensure that they comply with all requirements to avoid disruptions in funding. Staying informed about NSFAS policies can help you plan your academic journey without financial stress.

This guide will explain whether returning students need to apply for NSFAS, the eligibility requirements, and what to do if your funding is discontinued. Whether you are a continuing student or returning after a break, this article will provide clarity on the NSFAS application process for returning students in South Africa.

READ: How To Reapply At TUT For 2026?

Can Returning Students Re-Apply For Nsfas For 2026-2027

• Returning students who have previously received NSFAS funding can apply again for financial aid for the upcoming academic year 2026-2027. However, once your NSFAS application is approved, reapplying each year is not required.
• The funding is automatically renewed annually, provided you meet the academic performance criteria and still qualify based on financial need.
• This means that if you were an NSFAS beneficiary in 2025 and plan to continue your studies in 2026, you won’t need to submit a new application for NSFAS 2025 funding.

What Are The Eligibility Requirements Needed To Apply For Nsfas As A Returning Student

To qualify for an NSFAS bursary as a returning student, you must be a South African citizen or permanent resident planning to study in 2026 or currently enrolled at a public university or TVET college. Also, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
• Be a recipient of a SASSA grant
• Have a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year
• For applicants with disabilities, the household income must not exceed R600,000 per year
• Possess an active email address and a cell phone number

Required Documents For NSFAS Application 2025-2026

To apply for NSFAS for the 2025-2026 academic year, you will need to submit the following documents:

For Students with Disabilities:

• A completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form

For Students Recognised as Vulnerable Children:

• A Vulnerable Child Declaration Form completed by a social worker (for applicants identified as vulnerable children by the Department of Social Development)

Additional Documents (If Applicable):

• Retrenchment letter
• Death certificate(s)
• Divorce decree
• Proof of legal guardianship
• Marriage certificate
• Other documents required for appeal purposes (retrenchment letter)

Ensuring that you provide the correct and complete documents will help prevent delays in your NSFAS application process.

How To Maintain Your NSFAS Funding 2025-2026

While you don’t need to reapply for NSFAS every year, it’s essential to meet the requirements to keep your funding active. Here’s what you need to do:

• Academic Performance: You must pass at least 50% of your modules each year to remain eligible. Failure to meet this standard could result in losing your NSFAS funding.
• Update Personal Information: If there are any significant changes in your academic or personal circumstances, update them on the myNSFAS portal to avoid any issues.
• Monitor Your NSFAS Status: Regularly check your myNSFAS account to track your funding status and ensure all details are up to date.

Exceptions to the Rule for NSFAS 2025-2026

Some returning students may need to reapply for NSFAS under specific circumstances, such as:

• Taking a Gap Year: If you took a break from your studies, you must reapply when you return.
• Changing Institutions: If you transfer to a different university or TVET college, NSFAS will need to reassess your funding based on the new institution’s tuition and fee structure.

How To Apply For NSFAS As A Returning Student 2025-2026

Applying for NSFAS as a returning student is a simple process. Follow the steps below to submit your application successfully:

Create a Profile:

• Visit the myNSFAS portal at https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App from Google Play or the App Store.
• Use your ID number as your username to create or log into your myNSFAS account.

Apply Online:

• Click on the “Apply” tab to start your application.
• Update your details and upload the required supporting documents as prompted.

Submit Your Application:

• Review all information for accuracy.
• Click “Submit” to complete your application process.

READ MORE: How Many Times Can NSFAS Fund You?

Contact Details Of Nsfas

• Toll-Free Number: 0800 067 327
• Email: info@nsfas.org.za
• Website: www.nsfas.org.za

Physical Address:

• The Halyard Building, 4 Christiaan Barnard Street,
• Cape Town City Centre, 8001,
• South Africa

For most returning students, NSFAS funding is automatically renewed each year, provided they meet the academic and financial eligibility requirements. However, students who have taken a gap year, changed institutions or lost their funding due to poor academic performance may need to reapply for NSFAS for the 2026-2027 academic year. Visit the Official Website Of Nsfas For More Details.

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